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From Isaac Job, Uyo
No fewer than 15 local government areas in Akwa Ibom state have been inflicted by outbreak of monkey pox in the state .
According to the statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of National Orientation Agency in Akwa Ibom Jackson Ibok and made available to Journalists in Uyo, the affected local government areas include Ibesikpo Asutan , Mkpat Enin, Urue Offong Uruko, Eket, Ibiono Ibom and Abak.
Others are Eastern Obolo, Nsit Ibom , Etinan ,Itu, Uruan , Onna and Ika council areas .
The statement reads :
“In recent years, the world has witnessed the emergence of several infectious diseases that have raised global health concerns.
” Among these, monkeypox has re-emerged as an important public health topic.
” In light of increasing incidence rates and global travel, it is crucial to raise awareness about monkeypox, its symptoms, transmission, and prevention measures.”
Ibok explained that the State Director, National Orientation Agency, Akwa Ibom Directorate Mr Mkpoutom Mkpouto has stated that Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which is part of the Orthopoxvirus genus, it can be transmitted to humans typically through direct contact with infected animals or humans.
” Symptoms typically appear within 5 to 21 days after exposure. symptoms include: Fever, chills,rash (often beginning on the face and spreading to other parts of the body).
” Other symptoms include, headaches, muscle aches, fatigue and swollen lymph nodes (a distinguishing factor from smallpox) and that the rash usually progresses through several stages, from flat lesions to raised bumps filled with fluid, and eventually scabs over”.
Mpox can spread through direct contact with infected animals, such as handling or consuming bush meat, it can also spread through respiratory droplets after prolonged face-to-face contact, or through direct contact with lesions, bodily fluids, or contaminated materials like bedding as well as contaminated surfaces serving as a transmission pathways.
Ibok noted that data from the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health indicates high prevalent rate of Mpox seven LGAs with Uyo topping the list.
He appealed to the media, traditional institutions, religious authorities, NGOs and NOA COMOs to spread awareness about Mpox.
” Share information on Mpox in community, engage in discussions, and support public health initiatives aimed at monitoring and controlling this disease.
“Your awareness and proactive measures can make a significant difference”
